Arts Dispatch December 2022-February 2023

A quarterly guide to the arts in Waterville.

Photo by Trent Bell

On behalf of the entire Waterville Creates team, we are delighted to present the first issue of Arts Dispatch, your guide to arts programming in Waterville. Each quarter, you will find information about upcoming film, visual, and performing arts events as well as featured projects, artist spotlights, staff profiles, and creative DIY activities.

We are also thrilled to welcome you to our new home in the Paul J. Schupf Art Center! More than just a building, this beautiful space in the heart of downtown will be a welcoming community gathering place, where people of all ages and backgrounds can enjoy shared arts experiences and create lasting memories. As you peruse the upcoming events and programs outlined in this guide, we hope that you will find exciting ways to expand your arts experiences in this dynamic art center. Check out a gallery exhibition before heading to a show at the Waterville Opera House. Catch a movie before you pick your children up from theatre camp. With so many opportunities all under one roof, you can choose your own arts adventure!

We hope to see you soon and often.

Haines President + CEO

Shannon

Maine Film Center Executive Director

Patricia King Vice President

Michelle Sweet Waterville Opera House Executive Director

ADDRESS

Paul J. Schupf Art Center 93 Main Street

Waterville, ME 04901 207.873.7000

HOURS

Ed Harris Box Office: Open daily, 11am–7pm* Galleries: Open daily, 11am–7pm*; closed Tuesdays and federal holidays Theater Concessions: Monday–Friday, 2–9pm; Saturday–Sunday, 11am–9pm* *Hours may vary for special events

CODE OF CONDUCT

Waterville Creates is committed to ensuring that the Paul J. Schupf Art Center is a safe and welcoming place for all. We expect our visitors, volunteers, and staff to recognize and honor one another with dignity and respect. We have no tolerance for any acts of harassment or harmful behavior.

ACCESSIBILITY

All street-level entrances to the Paul J. Schupf Art Center are wheelchair accessible. The Maine Film Center’s screening rooms and skywalk to the Waterville Opera House are accessible by elevator. Designated wheelchair seating is available in all three film screening rooms as well as the orchestra level of the Waterville Opera House. Assisted listening devices are available at the Maine Film Center and the Waterville Opera House. For more information on accessibility or to request accommodations, please call 207.873.7000 or e-mail access@watervillecreates.org.

YOUTH ARTS ACCESS FUND (YAAF)

Waterville Creates believes that all youth, regardless of income, ability, or background, should have access to outstanding arts programming and arts education opportunities. In an effort to remove cost as a barrier to participation, we have created a dedicated fund to support free admission for youth ages 18 and under to the full range of programming offered by Waterville Creates and its divisions, including art classes and camps, community theatre productions, live music, and film programming. Please visit the Ed Harris Box Office or call 207.873.7000 to access YAAF funds.

VALUES

COMMUNITY

We are building a thriving, connected, and equitable community through shared experiences in the arts. By presenting arts programming by, with, and for our community, we promote growth and well-being.

CREATIVITY

We recognize the vital role creative expression plays in a fulfilled life and a vibrant community, nurture individual artistic endeavors at all levels, and encourage all creative outlets.

COLLABORATION

We connect and work with creatives, arts and cultural organizations, and other strategic partners to energize and enrich our community through the arts.

DIVERSITY, EQUITY + INCLUSION

We support, encourage, and honor diverse stories and perspectives. We provide relevant, accessible programming while making space for community conversations that deepen understanding and foster discourse around critical issues of our time.

WE’RE A BANK FOR EVERYONE.

Whether you’re starting your first job or retiring from your last, we understand that every financial situation is different ... just like the people we serve.

We invite you to experience the difference.

Lear n more at www.KennebecSavings.Bank

events

5TH ANNUAL JOY TO THE VILLE AT THE PAUL J. SCHUPF ART CENTER Saturday, December 17, 10am–5pm Join Waterville Creates, the Colby College Museum of Art, the Waterville Public Library, the Children’s Discovery Museum, and Bixby Chocolate Café for a full day of festive, family-friendly activities as we celebrate the season in the new Paul J. Schupf Art Center. Enjoy free movies, artmaking activities, clay demonstrations, and dance workshops. Visit the Common Threads exhibition at Ticonic Gallery and Light on Main Street at the Colby Museum’s Joan Dignam Schmaltz Gallery of Art. Free art lunchboxes + luminary art kits, rolling art cart activities, and refreshments—including MFC popcorn and Bixby’s drinking chocolate—will be available all day. All activities are free and open to all! Visit watervillecreates.org for a complete schedule of events.

BECOME A MEMBER

Waterville Creates members enjoy special benefits at the Maine Film Center, Waterville Opera House, and Ticonic Gallery + Studios. Member benefits range from discounted admissions and advance ticket purchasing opportunities to free popcorn and merchandise. A selection of gifts from our partners at the Waterville Public Library and the Colby College Museum of Art are offered at all levels.

Every membership directly supports our film, visual and performing arts, and education programs and helps to build a community where all people can enjoy transformative experiences in the arts.

For more information, visit watervillecreates.org/membership or inquire at the Ed Harris Box Office.

events

BOSSOV BALLET THEATRE’S THE NUTCRACKER

December 9, 10 at 7pm + December 10, 11 at 2pm

Tickets: $28–$33

Join the mysterious journey of Marie to the Land of Magic, where all holiday dreams come true! Toy soldiers, dancing mice, the Sugar Plum Fairy and her flower escorts are brought to life by the magic of Uncle Drosselmeyer in this classical ballet, set to Tchaikovsky’s timeless score.

MISSOULA CHILDREN’S THEATRE CAMP: HANSEL AND GRETEL Camp: February 20–25; Registration fee: $220 Performance: Saturday, February 25, 12pm; Tickets: $8–$10 Theatre camp provides students in grades 1-8 with hands-on opportunities to learn about the theatrical process. The week concludes with a fully realized performance, with scenery, costumes, and props.

PEKING ACROBATS FEATURING THE SHANGHAI CIRCUS Friday, February 24, 7:30pm; Tickets: $33–$43

Sensational Chinese acrobatics, comedy, balancing feats and much more! As a special treat for fans of The Peking Acrobats, this all-new production features performers from The Shanghai Circus to create a very special Chinese acrobatic extravaganza unlike any other!

SCHOOL SHOW: PETE THE CAT’S BIG HOLLYWOOD ADVENTURE Tuesday, March 7, 9:30am + 12pm Lights! Camera! Action! When Pete the Cat and his buddy Callie sneak into Hollywood Studios, they get lost in the world of the movies. Join Pete, Callie, Grumpy Toad, Gus the Platypus, Ethel the Apatosaurus, and Robo-Pete in this rockin’ new musical adventure. Pre-registration required.

THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG March 31, April 1, 7, 8, 7:30pm + April 2, 9, 2pm; Tickets: $24–$26

This 1920s whodunit “play within a play” has everything you never wanted in a show—an unconscious leading lady, a corpse that can’t play dead, and actors who trip over everything (including their lines). Nevertheless, the accident-prone thespians battle against all odds to make it through to their final curtain call, with hilarious consequences!

Presented by arrangement with Dramatists Play Service under license from Mischief Worldwide Ltd.

(A NEW) HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

THE MUPPET CHRISTMAS CAROL

Saturday, December 17, 10:30am | 1992 | G

The Muppets perform the classic Dickens holiday tale, with Kermit the Frog playing Bob Cratchit, the put-upon clerk of stingy Ebenezer Scrooge. Other Muppets—Miss Piggy, Gonzo, Fozzie Bear and Sam the Eagle—weave in and out of the story, while Scrooge receives visits from spirits of three Christmases—past, present and future.

MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET

Saturday, December 17, 1pm | 1947 | PG

Macy’s department store, the epicenter of the holiday shopping season, hires a man who calls himself Kris Kringle to be their Santa Claus. Some question his sanity, and a young lawyer defends him—and the right to believe—in court.

FIDDLER ON THE ROOF Sunday, December 18, 12pm | 1971 | G

Oscar-winning adaptation of the Broadway musical about life among the Jewish community of a pre-revolutionary Russian village. A poor milkman, determined to find good husbands for his five daughters, consults the traditional matchmaker—and also has a word with God.

GREMLINS

Monday, December 19, 7pm | 1984 | PG

A young man inadvertently breaks three important rules concerning his new pet and unleashes a horde of malevolently mischievous monsters on a small town on Christmas Eve.

events

FREE + OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

BRIDGET JONES’ DIARY

Tuesday, December 20, 7pm | 2001 | R

At the start of the New Year, 32-year-old Bridget decides it’s time to take control of her life and start keeping a diary. Now, the most provocative and hysterical book on her bedside table is the one she’s writing.

MONTY PYTHON’S THE MEANING OF LIFE

Wednesday, December 21, 7pm | 1983 | R

The Monty Python troupe tackles almost everything under the sun (alas, even the very creation of the Sun itself and its brotherly stars), including birth, growing up, war, middle age, organ transplants, old age and death.

DIE HARD

Thursday, December 22, 7pm | 1988 | R

New York City policeman John McClane (Bruce Willis) is visiting his estranged wife and two daughters at a corporate holiday party on Christmas Eve. But the festivities are interrupted by a group of terrorists who take over the exclusive high-rise and everyone in it.

RARE EXPORTS: A CHRISTMAS TALE

Friday, December 23, 7pm | 2010 | R

In the depths of the Finnish Korvatunturi mountains, 486 meters deep, lies the closest ever guarded secret of Christmas. The time has come to dig it up. This horrifying Christmas, everyone will believe in Santa Claus.

LOVE MAKERS + RULE BREAKERS

ROMEO + JULIET

Thursday, February 2, 7pm | 1996 | PG-13

Baz Luhrmann’s adaptation of the classic Shakespearean romantic tragedy for the screen is updated for a post-modern retelling, starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Claire Danes.

MAGIC MIKE

Tuesday, February 7, 7pm | 2012 | R

By day, Mike makes ends meet any way he can. But nighttime is when Mike really gets to display his many talents: He’s the headliner in an all-male revue. Mike sees potential in a 19-year-old he dubs the Kid, takes him under his wing and instructs him in the tricks of the trade.

GIRL 6 (in 35mm)

Thursday, February 9, 7pm | 1996 | R

Trying to make it in the acting world, a young woman resorts to working as a phone fantasy operator to pay the bills. Called “Girl 6” by her new employer, she finds her work oddly fulfilling and comes to the dangerous realization that it’s easier to live in her fantasy work life than her real life.

MOONLIGHT

Tuesday, February 14, 7pm | 2016 | R

A timeless story of human connection and self-discovery, Moonlight chronicles the life of a young black man from childhood to adulthood as he struggles to find his place in the world while growing up in a rough neighborhood of Miami.

events

TICKETS

$12 adults | $10 seniors, students, military | $8 children (12 and under)

ONLY LOVERS LEFT ALIVE

Thursday, February 16, 7pm | 2013 | R

An underground musician, deeply depressed by the direction of human activities, reunites with his resilient and enigmatic lover. Set against the romantic desolation of Detroit and Tangiers, their love story has already endured several centuries at least, but can these wise but fragile outsiders continue to survive as the modern world collapses around them?

50 SHADES OF GREY

Tuesday, February 21, 7pm | 2015 | R

When college senior Anastasia Steele steps in for her sick roommate to interview prominent businessman Christian Grey for their campus paper, little does she realize the path her life will take. Ana plunges headlong into an affair—and learns that Christian’s true proclivities push the boundaries of pain and pleasure.

MISSISSIPPI MASALA

Thursday, February 23, 7pm | 1991 | R

After Mina’s Indian family is ousted from their home in Uganda by dictator Idi Amin, they relocate to Mississippi to start a new life. Mina falls for Demetrius, a young carpet cleaner, despite the protestations of their families over their racial difference.

EYES WIDE SHUT

Tuesday, February 28, 7pm | 1999 | R

After Dr. Bill Hartford’s wife, Alice, admits to having fantasies about a man she met, Bill becomes obsessed with having an encounter of his own. He discovers an underground group and attends one of their meetings—and quickly discovers he is in over his head.

events

ONE SHOW ONLY!

Non-member tickets: $12 adults | $10 seniors, students, military | $8 children (12 and under)

THE CREATURE FROM THE BLACK LAGOON (In 3D!)

Saturday, January 14, 6:30pm | 1954 | G

Remnants of a mysterious animal have come to light in a remote jungle, and a group of scientists intends to determine if the find is an anomaly or evidence of an undiscovered beast. Free for Waterville Creates members.

MONTY PYTHON AND THE HOLY GRAIL (Sing-along!)

At the Waterville Opera House, Saturday, January 21, 7pm | 1975 | PG

When the mythical king of the Britons leads his knights on a quest for the Holy Grail, they face a wide array of horrors, including a persistent Black Knight, a three-headed giant, a cadre of shrubberychallenged knights, the perilous Castle Anthrax, a killer rabbit, a house of virgins, and a handful of rude Frenchmen. Free for Waterville Creates members.

SONG OF THE SEA

Friday, March 17, 1pm | 2014 | PG

An Irish youth discovers that his mute sister is a selkie who must find her voice and free supernatural creatures from the spell of a Celtic goddess. Free for Waterville Creates members.

MET OPERA ENCORE

Tickets: $19 adults | $17 seniors, students, military | $16 children (12 and under)

THE HOURS (Kevin Puts) – Libretto by Greg Pierce Saturday, January 7, 12:55pm

Inspired by Virginia Woolf’s Mrs. Dalloway and made a household name by the Oscar-winning 2002 film, this powerful story concerns three women from different eras who each grapple with their inner demons and their roles in society.

FEDORA (Giordano) Saturday, January 28, 12:55pm

Returning to the Met repertory for the first time in 25 years, Umberto Giordano’s exhilarating drama is packed with memorable melodies, showstopping arias, and explosive confrontations.

IN THE CLAY STUDIO

BEGINNING CLAY: INTRODUCTION TO WHEEL THROWING $175 per session

In these 6-week sessions, participants learn the basics of shaping, trimming, glazing, and more in a fun and supportive environment. Tools, materials, 25-pound bag of clay, glazes, firings, and studio access are included with class registration.

SESSION 1 SESSION 2 SESSION 3 SESSION 4

Mondays, January 9–February 13, 1:30–3pm

Wednesdays, January 11–February 15, 5:30–7pm

Mondays, February 27–April 3, 1:30–3pm

Wednesdays, March 1–April 5, 5:30–7pm

BEGINNING CLAY: INTRODUCTION TO HAND BUILDING Tuesdays, February 7–March 14, 5:30–7pm; $175

Join clay instructor Roxanne Stevenson for a six-week introduction to surface designs, carving, and making lids and handles in this introductory class. No experience required. Tools, materials, 25-pound bag of clay, glazes, firings, and studio access are included with class registration.

INTERMEDIATE CLAY: WHEEL THROWING Thursdays, March 23–April 27, 5:30–7pm; $175

Create with instructor and clay artist Amy Bley for this six-week exploration of clay techniques for the experienced clay artist. Participants will refine their skills while learning new methods including throwing large and altered forms. Tools, materials, 25-pound bag of clay, glazes, firings, and studio access are included with class registration.

education

TEEN CLAY CLUB (Ages 13-16)

Tuesdays, January 10–April 25, 3–5pm; $30 per session

Our first after school clay club for teens! In this bi-monthly exploration of clay, students will learn wheel throwing, hand building, glazing, surface design, and more! Each young artist will be encouraged to independently find their own unique approach in a supportive environment. Healthy snacks provided. Tools, glaze, firings, and all other materials are included.

FOR THE LOVE OF PETS: VALENTINE PET BOWLS

Saturday, February 11, 10am–12pm; $75 (snow date: February 18)

Join us at for this special two-hour workshop to create two custom bowls for your pet! Bowls can be collected 3 weeks after the class. Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. Tools, glaze, firings, and all other materials are included.

CLAY MEMBERSHIPS

Clay studio memberships are available for ceramic artists who can work without supervision. Membership includes access to the studio, tools, glazes, use of pottery wheels and kiln firings. The Studio is equipped with 3 kilns, 7 wheels, a slab roller, and a full complement of materials and glazes.

All clay used in the Ticonic Clay Studio must be purchased through Waterville Creates. Access to the studio is available 24 hours a day and seven days a week. Clay members must be at least 18 years old.

Membership Fee: $130/month; 3 months/$350 ($40 discount) 25-pound bag of clay: $30

To learn more, contact: Yvonne Brown, Clay Studio Coordinator, ybrown@watervillecreates.org

IN THE CLASSROOM

AFTER SCHOOL ART CLUB (Ages 8–12)

Thursdays, January 19–March 30 (no class February 23), 3–5pm; $15 per session

PERSPECTIVE DRAWING

JAN 19

Learn the basics of perspective drawing and render the magnificent Two Cent Bridge using indoor projection.

CONCESSION STAND SHADING

JAN 26

FEB 2

We’ll begin by shading basic shapes and then stop by the Maine Film Center’s concession stand to draw popcorn, drinks and more!

DESIGN A BUS STOP

Using Portland’s public bus stop as inspiration, we’ll design a 3D space that’s creative, functional, and fun.

CITYSCAPES: USING A VIEW FINDER

FEB 9

FEB 16 MAR 2 MAR 9

Learn to use a viewfinder! We’ll create dynamic drawings of Main Street from the large second floor windows at the Paul J. Schupf Art Center.

WEAVING

Weave your own story inspired by the Colby Museum’s Lunder Institute’s summer 2022 residential fellow, Bryana Bibbs and Faith Ringgold’s work, Coming to the Jones Road #4: Under a Blood Red Sky.

CLAY STORIES OF STRENGTH*

How have you shown strength in challenging situations? Create unique marks in clay, and make a piece that celebrates strength and courage.

LANTERN STORIES*

Inspired by the Boston-based public art exhibition, Lantern Stories, we’ll create paper lanterns that tell our own stories of family, community, and resiliency.

GALLERY OF COMMON THINGS*

MAR 16 MAR 23 MAR 30

Celebrate your favorite object and put it on display. Choose your object, write about it, make it in miniature, and create a 3D gallery space for it. In collaboration with the Colby College Museum of Art.

DESIGNING PUBLIC ART*

We’ll look at public art, including murals, in Waterville and other Maine locations, then design one of our own.

MAKE A ZINE*

A zine is a small, self-made magazine that can tell a story in many ways. Using a lively combination of words and pictures, create a zine that tells your unique story.

*March sessions planned around the national Youth Art Month theme: Your Art, Your Voice

education

FIRST FRIDAYS; TRY! MAKE! CREATE!

Fridays; January 6, February 3, March 3, 4–6pm; Suggested donation: $10

Stop by Ticonic Gallery + Studios to try, make, and create! We will provide a guided activity, but you can also choose your own adventure using materials in the Studio.

EMBROIDERY BRUNCH

Saturday, January 21, 11am–1pm; $30 (snow date: January 28)

Join artist Dina Jeannotte and other embroidery enthusiasts to learn stitches from an expert! Materials and light refreshments provided. No experience necessary.

VALENTINE CARDMAKING: MEMBERS EVENT

Saturday, February 11, 1–3pm; Free Create cards for loved ones using stamps, stickers, decorative paper, and collage.

SAVE THE DATE: APRIL ARTIST AND MAKER CAMP April 17–21, 2023

IN THE GALLERY

COMMUNITY DRAW

Wednesdays, January 4, February 1, March 1, April 5, May 3, 6–8pm; $10 Hone your drawing skills at a costumed figure drawing workshop. Costumes provided courtesy of the Waterville Opera House.

EXHIBITIONS

COMMON THREADS

December 17–February 12

What does it mean to be part of a community? How can we forge meaningful connections with each other and the place we call home? Using a beautiful screen-printed tent as a gathering place, artists Elizabeth Jabar and Colleen Kinsella brought artists and community members of all ages together to explore these questions through a series of collaborative workshops and conversations during the summer of 2022. Featuring an array of prints, written works, and portraits, this exhibition represents the individual and collective stories gathered throughout the process and provides a glimpse of the shared hopes, dreams, and ideas for Waterville. Visitors to the exhibition are invited to contribute their own thoughts through a series of interactive prompts.

YOUTH ART MONTH (YAM)

Theme: Your Art, Your Voice, March 3–31

Opening Reception: March 3, 5–7pm

Ticonic Gallery is delighted to partner with Greene Block + Studios (located at 18 Main Street) to celebrate Youth Art Month with a spectacular, multi-site exhibition of artwork by local students in grades K-12. Featuring works in a variety of media, including painting, digital art, pottery, photography, and more, YAM is an opportunity for students to showcase their work in a gallery setting and share their achievements with their families and their community. Youth Art Month is a national initiative designed to emphasize the value of art education for all children and to encourage support for quality school art programs.

UNTITLED BY KARINA STEELE

December 17, 2022 – July 1, 2023

Maine Film Center Lobby

Karina Steele is a Maine-based woodworker who experiments with bending wood to create one-of-a-kind sculptural wall pieces for the home as well as large-scale installations for commercial spaces. Steele also crafts beautifully handmade wooden spoons and kitchen tools.

exhibitions

MURALS

FIELDS ALIVE WITH POLLEN + WINGS

Paul J. Schupf Art Center Lobby

Fields Alive with Pollen + Wings brings the outside in, grounding the Paul J. Schupf Art Center in the surrounding area by combining hand-painted native Maine flora and fauna and colorful geometric shapes that feature vignettes of lively nature scenes. The title of the mural is taken from a line in the poem “In Praise of Hands’’ by Maine poet Stuart Kestenbaum. In the spirit of Kestenbaum’s poem, Tessa Greene O’Brien’s mural invokes the transformational potential of close looking. Intricately woven together into a central image are four Maine habitats, filled with specific species.

COMMON THREADS

Paul J. Schupf Art Center North Stairwell

Visitors to the Paul J. Schupf Art Center will discover this vibrant, large-scale mural designed by Elizabeth Jabar and Collen Kinsella as part of the Common Threads project. Featuring a beautiful rendering of the Two Cent Bridge and incorporating graphic elements created over the course of the project, the mural brings the exhibition outside the walls of the gallery and invites the community to reflect and engage.

Bossov Ballet Theatre’s The Nutcracker 2pm, WOH

Fiddler on the Roof 12pm, MFC

Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS

Gremlins 7pm, MFC

Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS

Bridget Jones’ Diary 7pm, MFC

Monty Python’s The Meaning of Life 7pm, MFC

Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS

Die Hard 7pm, MFC

Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS

Bossov Ballet Theatre’s The Nutcracker 7pm, WOH

Bossov Ballet Theatre’s The Nutcracker 2pm + 7pm, WOH

Joy to the Ville 10am–5pm, WC The Muppet Christmas Carol 10:30am, MFC

Miracle on 34th Street 1pm, MFC Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS

Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS

Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS

Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS

Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS

Rare Exports: A Christmas Tale 7pm, MFC

Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS

Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS

Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS

Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS

Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS New Year’s Day (observed)

Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS

Introduction to Wheel Throwing 1:30–3pm, TGS

Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS Teen Clay Club 3–5pm, TGS

Community Draw 6–8pm, TGS

Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS

Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS

First Friday: Try! Make! Create! 4–6pm, TGS

Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS

Met Opera Encore: The Hours (Kevin Puts) 12:55, MFC

Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS

Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS

Introduction to Wheel Throwing 1:30–3pm, TGS

Martin Luther King Jr. Day Teen Clay Club 3–5pm, TGS

Introduction to Wheel Throwing 5:30–7pm, TGS

Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS

Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS

Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS

The Creature from the Black Lagoon in 3D 6:30pm, MFC

Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS

Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS

Introduction to Wheel Throwing 1:30–3pm, TGS

Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS

Teen Clay Club 3–5pm, TGS

Introduction to Wheel Throwing 5:30–7pm, TGS

Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS

After School Art Club: Perspective Drawing 3–5pm, TGS

Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS

Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS

Embroidery Brunch 11am–1pm, TGS Monty Python and the Holy Grail (sing along!) 7pm, WOH Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS

Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS

Introduction to Wheel Throwing 1:30–3pm, TGS

Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS Teen Clay Club 3–5pm, TGS

Introduction to Wheel Throwing 5:30–7pm, TGS

Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS

After School Art Club: Concession Stand Shading 3–5pm, TGS

Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS

Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS

Met Opera Encore: Fedora (Giordano) 12:55pm, MFC

Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS

Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS

Introduction to Wheel Throwing 1:30–3pm, TGS

Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS

Teen Clay Club 3–5pm, TGS

Introduction to Hand Building 5:30–7pm, TGS Magic Mike 7pm, MFC

Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS

Introduction to Wheel Throwing 5:30–7pm, TGS

Community Draw 6–8pm, TGS

Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS

After School Art Club: Design a Bus Stop 3–5pm, TGS Romeo + Juliet 7pm, MFC

Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS

After School Art Club: Cityscapes: Using a View Finder 3–5pm, TGS

First Friday: Try! Make! Create! 4–6pm, TGS

Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS

Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS

Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS

Introduction to Wheel Throwing 1:30–3pm, TGS

Teen Clay Club 3–5pm, TGS

Moonlight 7pm, MFC

Hand Building 5:30–7pm, TGS

MCTC Hansel and Gretel 9am–4pm, WOH

Teen Clay Club 3–5pm, TGS

Introduction to Wheel Throwing 5:30–7pm, TGS

Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS

Girl 6 7pm, MFC

Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS

Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS

Valentine Bowl Creation: For the Love of Pets 1–3pm, TGS

Common Threads 11am–7pm, TGS

Missoula Children’s Theater Camp: Hansel and Gretel 9am–4pm, WOH

Introduction to Hand Building 5:30–7pm, TGS

50 Shades of Grey 7pm, MFC

Introduction to Wheel Throwing 5:30–7pm, TGS

Only Lovers Left Alive 7pm, MFC

After School Art Club: Weaving 3–5pm, TGS

Introduction to Wheel Throwing 1:30–3pm, TGS

Teen Clay Club 3–5pm, TGS

Introduction to Hand Building 5:30–7pm, TGS

Eyes Wide Shut 7pm, MFC

Missoula Children’s Theater Camp: Hansel and Gretel 9am–4pm, WOH

Missoula Children’s Theater Camp: Hansel and Gretel 9am–4pm, WOH Mississippi Masala 7pm, MFC

Missoula Children’s Theater Camp: Hansel and Gretel 9am–4pm, WOH

Peking Acrobats featuring The Shanghai Circus 7:30pm, WOH

Performance: Missoula Children’s Theater Camp: Hansel and Gretel 12:00pm, WOH

partner events

JOAN DIGNAM SCHMALTZ GALLERY OF ART, 93 MAIN STREET

LIGHT ON MAIN STREET

December 17, 2022–January 23, 2023

The Colby College Museum of Art is excited to welcome the first visitors to the Joan Dignam Schmaltz Gallery of Art with a selection of video works by Erin Johnson, Paul Kos, and Jennifer Steinkamp. At the darkest time of the year, these luminous moving images will fill the gallery on Castonguay Square with wonder and light.

ASHLEY BRYAN / PAULA WILSON: TAKE THE WORLD INTO YOUR ARMS

February 17–July 17, 2023

This exhibition brings together two extraordinary artists, Ashley Bryan and Paula Wilson, whose passionate and open embrace of the world unites their multifaceted creative endeavors. Through their art, they channel the beauty and spirituality to be found in humanity and nature, using texture, color, and light to convey magical lyricism.

GREENE BLOCK + STUDIOS, 18

FIRST FRIDAYS

MAIN STREET

December 2, January 6, February 3, March 3, 5–7pm

First Fridays celebrate the vibrant creativity of Waterville by inviting people downtown to engage in multidisciplinary arts experiences. On the first Friday of every month, visit downtown Waterville to meet artists, participate in various workshops, listen to live music, eat delicious local food, and come together as a community.

TWO CENT TALKS: COLBY’S CREATIVE WRITING FACULTY March 7, 5–6:30pm

Celebrating the verbal arts in Maine. A literary and creative arts series of readings, lectures, and performances sponsored by Colby College’s Office of the President, Center for the Arts and Humanities, English Department, and Creative Writing Program.

WATERVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY, 73 ELM STREET

CRAFTERNOONS

December 6, 13, 20 + 27, 3pm

Crafternoons are fun weekly crafts for young children and their families! Join Mrs. Liz at 3pm on Tuesdays on the Waterville Public Library’s Facebook page for instructions and a video demonstration. The kits for each craft will be available in the Children’s Room starting the Monday* before the event.

*In the case of a holiday, kits will be ready the Friday before.

Making art centers us. It calms us. It helps us to see the beauty in our world. It helps us to find the beauty in ourselves. It’s why we believe art should be experienced by everyone.

watervillecreates.org

It’s not a paint brush. It’s an invitation to meet your inner child.

staff spotlight

EMILIENNE “EM” OUELLETTE BOX OFFICE MANAGER

How long you have worked for Waterville Creates?

I began as the Opera House Box Office Manager in January 2016. With the move to the new Paul J. Schupf Art Center, I am now the Box Office Manager for all divisions of Waterville Creates.

What does a “typical” day for you look like? One of the reasons I love my job is because I don’t really have “typical” days. Outside of event building, sales, and managing our ticketing system, my days vary widely depending on what events are taking place. I’ve managed Theatre Camp, designed props, created window displays, published playbills, served on multiple committees, helped with set painting and volunteer coordination, and performed on stage. I wear many hats, both literally and figuratively.

What do you like most about your job? This job perfectly suits the two sides of my personality. Ticket sales and event management require me to be very detail-oriented and logical. However, the artistic aspects of my job mean I get to use my imagination and creativity every day. Having the opportunity to work in my community, doing something that I love and am passionate about, has been a dream come true. During my childhood, I benefitted immensely from the youth arts programming in Waterville. I am honored to be a part of creating those memories and opportunities for future generations.

Do you have a favorite memory or work story? Oh, I’m afraid choosing one is impossible. Performing “Begin the Beguine” onstage whilst wearing an obnoxiously sparkly dress, the opening night performance of Clue, becoming a Mermaid, and Nick’s feather at the dress rehearsal of The Producers (if you know, you know). Overall, the friendships that I have made throughout my time as Box Office Manager are the greatest gift.

What is your idea of perfect happiness? Contrary to popular belief, my true nature is that of an introverted homebody. Therefore, perfect happiness is a lovely afternoon in my pajamas, cuddling with my dogs, Frodo and Sam, tending to my outrageous number of houseplants, sipping a glass of wine, and working on my current creative endeavor. Going fishing with my dad and sister is a close second.

Can you recommend a play, film, or other art related experience to our readers? I’m an audiobook addict. For as long as I can remember, I have loved being read to. My favorites are Belong to Me by Marisa de los Santos, narrated by Julia Gibson and The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams, narrated by Stephen Fry.

Caring. Commitment. Community.

In these times, we feel more than ever that there’s something special about being part of a great community.

At MaineGeneral, we believe our community deserves the best. That’s why we give you ours.

To learn more about our comprehensive quality services, call 1-866-4MGH-INFO or visit www.mainegeneral.org.

Ice lanterns are pretty, festive, and just require water, plastic containers and a chill in the air. Go for a walk and see what winter treasures you can find to decorate and add color to your lantern!

DIRECTIONS

1 Arrange some of your nature materials in the bottom of the large container.

2 Place the smaller container (open end facing up) inside the larger container so it holds the foliage in place. This will help create a base to your lantern.

3 Place more materials in the space between the two containers.

4 Slowly pour water into the space between the containers until the water is about ½” below the top of the large container. If the small container is lightweight, you may need to place a stone inside it so it doesn’t float up or use sticky tape to hold it in place. If any of your materials are sticking out above the water, push them down below the top edge of the container. Add food coloring at this step if you’d like. 5 Carefully place inside a freezer (or outside if temperatures are below freezing.) Allow it to freeze for several hours or overnight.

Once your lantern is frozen, tip it upside down and tap it until it comes out. If it is hard to get out, run some warm water on the outside of your large container to release the ice. Then turn your lantern over and pull out the small container. Pouring a small amount of warm water in your small container can also help get it free. 7 Place a small tea light inside your ice lantern

Greene Block + Studios is a center for innovation in the arts, providing a home for vibrant arts programming and creative space for the development of original work in the heart of Waterville, Maine.

Join in free arts workshops, enjoy multidisciplinary performances, and build community!

Visit greeneblock.colby.edu to see upcoming events. Follow @GreeneBlockAndStudios on Instagram and Facebook.